First off, let me give a brief profile. I am a Christian (I believe that Christ is the only way to heaven. What He did on this earth and the cross has an everlasting effect on the one who believes and commits their entire life to pursue and live out His commands. He is non-negotiable and worthy of all praise. There is none other that is first in my life). While I believe and would give my life for that statement, I have obvious struggles. Mainly, my everyday lifestyle. Making Christianity "stick" with me has been tough. It's been more like a post-it type of relationship (it does stick but it is really easy to take it off). It is so easy to dismiss what should be so obvious. Why? I have talked with so many who have these same questions. They struggle with "living" the Christian life outside of a place of worship. I trust these posts will help those (especially me) with the struggles and questions of lifestyle Christianity.
With that said, I have had a burning passion for this selected topic for quite some time. The church I now attend is in a state of transition. Traditionalism has its roots dug in so deep, an excavation alone may not be able to uproot it. Members (including myself) seem to be repetitious in our Christian lives. Coming in to the place of worship is like stepping onto the set of the Stepford Wives. Sure, these people are different, but how so? Well, I could go on and on about dress, boring songs, and shouts of amen to name a few. And while there is nothing wrong with that, there is nothing decidedly "Christian" about them. The only Christlike lifestyle characteristics are the man-made notions about traditional worship and behavior when one comes into a Holy place. Outside of the physical building, I would say that there are very few that practice "lifestyle Christianity". Those two words are worse than cursing in some fundamental circles. Other denominations have made it their free license to do what they want under Christian liberty. With all these different viewpoints, one can be confused. And make no mistake about it, the reason most struggle with a Christian lifestyle is because IT IS DIFFICULT. But we are mandated throughout the scripture to live a Christlike life. However, practicing what we know takes discipline, consistency, and potential failure or heartache. I trust we will find some answers to help these issues.
This may be a slow process, but I know it will help me. I would love your comments and suggestions. Feel free to respond anytime.
I trust this first blog finds you doing well.
With that said, I have had a burning passion for this selected topic for quite some time. The church I now attend is in a state of transition. Traditionalism has its roots dug in so deep, an excavation alone may not be able to uproot it. Members (including myself) seem to be repetitious in our Christian lives. Coming in to the place of worship is like stepping onto the set of the Stepford Wives. Sure, these people are different, but how so? Well, I could go on and on about dress, boring songs, and shouts of amen to name a few. And while there is nothing wrong with that, there is nothing decidedly "Christian" about them. The only Christlike lifestyle characteristics are the man-made notions about traditional worship and behavior when one comes into a Holy place. Outside of the physical building, I would say that there are very few that practice "lifestyle Christianity". Those two words are worse than cursing in some fundamental circles. Other denominations have made it their free license to do what they want under Christian liberty. With all these different viewpoints, one can be confused. And make no mistake about it, the reason most struggle with a Christian lifestyle is because IT IS DIFFICULT. But we are mandated throughout the scripture to live a Christlike life. However, practicing what we know takes discipline, consistency, and potential failure or heartache. I trust we will find some answers to help these issues.
This may be a slow process, but I know it will help me. I would love your comments and suggestions. Feel free to respond anytime.
I trust this first blog finds you doing well.
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